Geraint Thomas, now 39, may be the oldest competitor in the upcoming 2025 Tour de France, and many speculate that this could mark his final appearance in a Grand Tour. Nevertheless, he demonstrated his determination during stage 7, showcasing his commitment to the sport and his team.
The stage kicked off at an exhilarating pace, with Thomas partaking in a breakaway early on that comprised five riders, managing to stay in the lead until just under 20 kilometers from the finish. The Welshman’s efforts were commendable, even though he ultimately lost ground on the Côte-du-village-du-Mûr-de-Bretagne, concluding his break as the remaining competitors were swept up by the peloton.
Thomas acknowledged that while aiming for a top position in the general classification (GC) was not a priority in this phase of his career, he wanted to contribute positively to his team, Ineos Grenadiers, particularly after their challenging start in the race. Having already lost time trial specialist Filippo Ganna in stage 1, Thomas noted that participating in breakaways served not only as a strategic move but also as a morale booster for the team.
Reflecting on the stage, he explained, “It was a bit of a big fight for the break… you could tell that UAE and Alpecin wanted to control.” The breakaway’s lead never exceeded two minutes, demonstrating the pressure from the chasing peloton. Despite this challenge, Thomas remained optimistic about his performance, viewing it as part of the competitive nature of the race.
He also emphasized the importance of finding momentum within the team, as top contender Carlos Rodríguez had already lost significant time. Thomas stated that while immediate results may be elusive, small victories during the race could help reinvigorate Ineos Grenadiers.
With a resolve that reflects his experience in the sport, Thomas continues to embody the spirit of competitive cycling, even as he nears the end of his professional career.
This stage also hints at the greater competitive landscape of the Tour de France, where established teams vie for supremacy amid emerging talents. Thomas’ resolve to keep pushing forward, despite the odds, is a reminder of the resilience that characterizes elite athletes in this grueling competition.